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Low current heaterless hollow cathode neutralizer for plasma propulsion-Development overview.

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Rafael developed the ARC-1A, a low current heaterless hollow cathode for spacecraft electric propulsion. This innovative electron source simplifies design and operation, successfully passing extensive endurance and ignition tests.

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Area of Science:

  • Spacecraft propulsion systems
  • Plasma physics and engineering
  • Advanced materials for electron emission

Background:

  • Conventional hollow cathodes require heating elements, complicating spacecraft electric propulsion systems.
  • Heaterless hollow cathode technology is an emerging area focused on simplifying design and improving reliability.
  • Electron sources are critical components for electric thrusters used in spacecraft maneuvering and station-keeping.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To overview the development of the ARC-1A, a novel low current heaterless hollow cathode.
  • To detail the design, manufacturing, failure mode analysis, and performance characterization of the ARC-1A.
  • To assess the suitability of the ARC-1A for low-power electric thrusters, including Hall effect thrusters.

Main Methods:

  • Development of manufacturing processes for the heaterless hollow cathode.
  • Failure mode analysis to identify and mitigate potential operational issues.
  • Performance characterization including discharge current and ignition voltage measurements.
  • Endurance testing (5000 hours) and cold ignition cycle testing (3500 cycles).

Main Results:

  • The ARC-1A heaterless hollow cathode was successfully designed and manufactured.
  • Ignition voltages were consistently below 400 V for discharge currents ranging from 0.3-1.2 A.
  • The cathode demonstrated suitability for low-power electric thrusters, validated through coupling with Hall effect thrusters.

Conclusions:

  • The ARC-1A represents a significant advancement in heaterless hollow cathode technology for spacecraft.
  • The device meets performance requirements for low-power electric propulsion applications.
  • Successful integration with Hall effect thrusters confirms its practical applicability in space missions.